Private Matchmaking for Philadelphia Singles

This Italian-inspired restaurant in Ambler is located in a beautiful building that was originally a school house. In fact, in 1890, it became the first integrated school in Montgomery County. Today, @tresiniambler is the perfect date spot, especially during the holiday season. Whether you’re sitting at the bar or seated at a table, you’ll enjoy the refined yet down-to-Earth atmosphere and a stellar menu created by Culinary Institute of America graduate and executive chef, Brad Daniels. Be sure to follow your Philly matchmaker @dararaematchmaking for more date ideas in the city and suburbs. #dararaematchmaking #tresini #ambler #historicalsite #datenight #phillydateideas

Honored to share my story in this Authority Magazine series on women making waves. Here’s a look at how Dara Rae Matchmaking came to be - and why I’m passionate about bringing people closer together ✨ #dararaematchmaking #matchmaker #philadelphia #authoritymagazine 📷: @melissajoy.photography

We started this week’s date night with a lovely dinner at @budandmarilyns. As a matchmaker, I’ve arranged several dates at this venue but it was my first time trying it out myself! It’s a great spot to grab drinks at the bar and share some light bites for a first date. Then we headed to the Portal and it did not disappoint! 💃 Follow for weekly Philly date night ideas. #dararaematchmaking #budandmarilyns #portal #datenight #phillydateideas

This local spot has been one of my favorite suburban restaurants for years. Whether you’re on a date, dining with friends, or meeting new people at the bar, the patio at @panachewoodfiregrill is always the perfect place to bring people together. Be sure to follow for weekly Philly date night ideas! #dararaematchmaking #phillymatchmaker #panache #bluebell #montco #phillydateideas

This weekend perfectly blended two of my passions: my love for Philly and helping singles find their match. On Saturday, I enjoyed a double date in Chestnut Hill with one of our Philly success stories—this couple has been together for six months, and their connection was inspiring to witness. From their eye contact to their playful interactions to the way they speak about each other, it’s clear their relationship is truly special. Then on Sunday, I had the honor of holding the American flag on the field at the Eagles game. It was such a thrill to be surrounded by the players and look up at the thousands of fans. I was able to share this experience with my dad and it’s a moment we will never forget! #PhillyLove #Eagles #DatingSuccess #Community #FamilyMoments #PhillyPride #RelationshipGoals #DaraRaeMatchmaking #datehimphilly

Nobody puts this matchmaker in a corner! Thank you @laurapanameno99 of @danzaacademyofsocialdance for making my childhood dream come true. This was our first dance class ever and we had such a blast and learned so much. Taking a dance class makes for a great date because it’s playful, fun, and creates chemistry 🔥 Grab a dance partner and take a class together. You won’t regret it! Remember to follow for weekly date ideas in Philly #dararaematchmaking #danzaacademy #dirtydancing #danceclass #phillydating #phillydateideas #matchmaker

Looking to meet amazing singles while enjoying a night with fellow Eagles fans? 🏈 Join us on October 23rd at City Tap House for an unforgettable evening featuring Eagles players Thomas Booker IV and Fred Johnson 🔥 Connect with Philly’s top singles and kick back for a fireside chat and meet-and-greet with the players. It’s more than just a night out—it’s your chance to make real connections and support the Eagles Autism Foundation. Don’t miss out! See you there! Ticket link in our bios 🎟️ #DatePhilly #LocalMatchmakers #MichalMatches #DaraRaeMatchmaking #Philadelphia #PhillyEvents #Eagles #SinglesNight #CityTapHouse #EaglesAutismFoundation

Last week, we drove up to Lehigh Valley to experience the oldest drive-in movie theatre on Earth. It’s worth the trip from Philly! @shankweilers is a classic date spot where you can enjoy a 🎃 film this spooky season. Follow for weekly date night ideas! #shankweilers #dararaematchmaking #phillydateideas #phillydating

Did you know that women are half as likely as men to become entrepreneurs? Yesterday was a special day for me, as I stood with my daughters in front of my billboard in Philadelphia. It’s not just about business; it’s about showing them what’s possible. I want them to see that they can achieve their dreams and break barriers. I hope this moment inspires them to chase their own passions. Here’s to leading by example! Thankful to share this experience with my fellow Philly matchmaker and girl mom @michalmatches #Inspiration #femaleentrepreneurs #dararaematchmaking #philadelphia #datephilly

Step inside our last dating event @midnightandthewicked_ . We’ve already received a number of DMs from you about phone numbers exchanged, connections made, and dates scheduled! Grab a ticket to one of our upcoming events… you won’t regret it! Oct 23rd- City Tap with some special guests (Hint: 🏈) Oct 26th- Dropping details soon🕹️👏 For more info, check out our bio! 🎥: @_nanc_nguyen #datephilly #dararaematchmaking #michalmatches #midnightandthewicked #phillydating #phillysingles

Thrilled to be featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer today - sharing how my group Date Him Philly helps single women in Philadelphia and celebrating our two engaged couples! I started Date Him Philly two years ago and it became clear that so many women (and men!) were looking for a better way to date. Then a year ago, @michalmatches and I teamed up to start hosting dating events for the group. The goal in all of the work I do, whether it’s the Facebook group, private matchmaking, coaching, or dating events - is to help our community make meaningful connections and ultimately find love. Read the article here: https://share.inquirer.com/6Ls8WC: #phillydating #datehimphilly #dararaematchmaking #datephilly #phillyinquirer #philadelphiainquirer

With dim lighting, high ceilings, and stunning archways, Il Fiore provides an upscale and romantic setting to get to know your date. Feeling more casual? Meet at the bar for happy hour where the mixologists serve delicious cocktails (we recommend the Bryn Mawr Sour). Ready for an intimate dinner? Reserve a table and enjoy the lovely ambiance and delicious menu. #ilfiore #dararaematchmaking #mainline #phillydateideas #phillydating

Excited to share my thoughts with @askmen on the biggest first date mistakes men often make! Want to nail your next date? Check out the article to avoid these common pitfalls. Read it here: https://www.askmen.com/top_10/dating/top-10-first-date-mistakes.html

Wait till the end for a special appearance by @jason.kelce. Highly recommend @liberteegrounds for a fun and low-key date night with endless activity options plus an amazing Asian-inspired menu. Follow your Philly matchmaker @dararaematchmaking for more date recommendations in the city of brotherly love. #liberteegrounds #dararaematchmaking #phillynightlife #phillydateideas #datenight

Thank you @smallbizphilly for sharing how I support our community! Read the article here: https://smallbizphilly.com/matchmaking-in-the-city-of-brotherly-love/ 📷 @melissajoy.photography

Put me in, coach! 🦅 Just like a NFL scout searches for the right player to fit the team, a matchmaker looks for the right qualities in potential partners. Let’s find those winning connections—on and off the field! @philadelphiaeagles #dararaematchmaking #phillymatchmaker #goeagles #gobirds #lincolnfinancialfield #matchmaking #scout

Are you in? Tickets at the link in bio.

🍃 As the weather starts to cool, Conshy’s new restaurant is the perfect date spot for any time of day. @thedaisytavern features a beautiful, nature-inspired interior with a delicious menu and seasonal cocktails. Outside, cozy up by the firepits or enjoy a game of cornhole. There’s truly something for everyone here - plus they have parking! We’ll definitely be back! 🍃 #phillydating #dateideas #matchmaker #dararaematchmaking #thedaisytavern

✨Whether it’s a date or a double date, a weeknight @midnightandthewicked_ is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail and incomparable atmosphere. Inspired by the Gatsby era 🎩, you’ll feel transported in time as you explore the glamorous rooms inside this transformed bank. On weekends, arrive in the evening for a nightclub experience. And best of all, if you’re single ♥️ - join your favorite Philly matchmakers @dararaematchmaking and @michalmatches for Date Philly’s Black & White themed singles event on September 19th. Tix available starting Sept 1st. ✨ #phillydatenight #philadelphia #dating #matchmaking #phillynightlife #datingevent

Where are your favorite Philly matchmakers going for this week’s TUESDATE? Bonus 🛎️: It is a double date AND the spot for our next event! 🎉 Drop your guesses below and 🏷️tag a single friend you want to bring as your “double date” to the event! ⬇️ #matchmaker #phillydating #datenight #philadelphia #doubledate

I posed this question to my online community of 4,000 single men in Philadelphia. Here are the top responses! What surprised you? #dararaematchmaking #matchmaker #dating #mensdatingadvice #singles #philadelphia #phillydating

Cantina Feliz just opened their new location in Ambler! The bright turquoise exterior sets the tone for a fun evening. Order margaritas and enjoy their amazing Mexican cuisine. The chicken enchiladas and steak fajita tacos were perfect. This is a beautiful restaurant to enjoy with a date or with a group of friends. Afterwards, consider catching a movie across the street at the Ambler Theatre! #cantinafeliz #phillydateideas #phillydating #ambler #dararaematchmaking

Do you think all matchmakers should take this pledge?

Want to know the words I treasure as a matchmaker? “I trust you.” When a client expresses their trust, it means that it’s been earned. It takes courage to let someone else guide your journey to love, and I put my heart and soul into every step of the process. So when I read this review, it touched me deeply. I’m so thankful to do this work. #dararaematchmaking

In 2013, I had a secret “crush” on my friend, James. There were a million reasons to never tell him. After 6 months of keeping this secret to myself, I went to my mom for advice. She said “If that’s how you feel about him, then you won’t be able to keep a real friendship together. So you have nothing to lose by telling him.” I didn’t want to admit it, but I realized she was right. Feeling SO nervous, I invited James to meet up with my friends at a bar in Fishtown. I pulled him aside and told him how I felt. After an initial moment of shock, he smiled and said “I’ve always felt that way about you.” 10+ years later and I’m happily married to my best friend. I’m so thankful that I conquered my fear and told him. If you have feelings for someone, let them know. You never know what could happen 😊

Looking for a casual and fun date? Check out Thirsty Dice in Fairmount! Unplug for the night and play board games while enjoying food, delicious cocktails, and a milkshake. Whether it’s your first date or 100th date together, you’ll have a great time. Afterwards, enjoy a romantic walk on Fairmount Ave. #phillydating #phillydateideas #boardgames #dararaematchmaking #matchmaker

Thank you to the Exponent for featuring me as a person You Should Know in Philadelphia! Grab this week’s newspaper or visit their website for the full article. #dararaematchmaking #phillymatchmaker

In the Olympics of Philly date night venues, Hook & Ladder in Conshohocken is a serious competitor. Located inside of a renovated firehouse, the ambiance is the perfect mix of old world charm and modern design. On a first date, sit at the sky bar and enjoy amazing bites like wagyu sliders during happy hour from 4-6 pm everyday. Looking for a romantic evening with a partner? Dine at the upscale restaurant and soak in the scenery. Afterwards, take a stroll around the courtyard or sit in the adirondack chairs and look up at the night sky. 10/10 recommend. #datenight #phillydateideas #dararaematchmaking

What’s your favorite hobby? P.S. Don’t judge my form, this isn’t Wimbledon 😊

What do you picture when you think of a professional matchmaker?

Looking for a date night with delicious cocktails, food, and a beautiful ambiance? Head to Fishtown for the James Beard award-winning, Kalaya. This authentic Thai restaurant lives up to the hype! For a first date, I recommend reserving seats at the bar where you can order a colorful drink and enjoy amazing bites or one of their phenomenal desserts. The venue is a large open space where you can easily hear your date no matter how busy it is - an important factor! The service was also shockingly fast and all of the staff were kind. Once you leave, take a stroll down Frankford Ave! #phillydateideas #philadelphia #kalaya #matchmaker #dararaematchmaking

Use this tip on your next restaurant date. Sitting catty corner can make your interaction feel more relaxed and less like an interview. It allows you to get closer, share flirtatious moments, and observe your surroundings together. Plus, it gives you both a break from constant eye contact during pauses in the conversation, so that it doesn’t feel awkward. So try to avoid the traditional across-the-table setup for a more engaging and enjoyable date. When that isn’t possible, sit next to each other at the bar! #dararaematchmaking #datingadvice #datinginphilly #matchmaker #philadelphia

Years ago, a guy invited my friend to the Chinese Lantern Festival for a first date. She and her date realized they didn’t have the same long-term goals, but she still had an amazing time. The festival reminded her that one of the benefits of dating is having an excuse to check out new places, try new restaurants, and overall share new experiences. The Chinese Lantern Festival showcases dozens of huge lanterns including a 200 ft dragon, live performances, a beer garden, and delicious food all in Franklin Square. A great setting to make a connection. #dararaematchmaking #datenight #matchmaker #philadelphia

People often comment that it must take a secure man to be with a matchmaker. Why? I suppose because we are meeting single people all the time and for some that could cause jealousy. The reality is that my profession has only strengthened my marriage. I know how lucky I am to share my life with my best friend and raise our daughters together. I don’t take it for granted (plus having a career where I’m constantly learning about relationships and self-improvement helps!) So please join me in wishing a happy birthday to a secure man, loving partner, wonderful father, and my biggest supporter when it comes to my career. I love you always. #matchmakerlife

Trust in your own timeline. Finding a life partner is a journey, not a race. I recently helped a woman meet a man who she is now madly in love with. Before meeting him, she kept comparing herself to her friends who were getting married and having children. She felt like she was falling behind. Today, she tells me that’s she’s so grateful it never worked out with anyone before because the love she has now was worth the wait. Trust that there are reasons it hasn’t happened yet, recognize the growth you’ve made and the lessons you’ve learned from all of your experiences - you are on your own unique path to love.

Cira Green is the perfect spot for a casual yet romantic first date. This rooftop park offers a beautiful sunset view, drinks from Sunset Social, and you can purchase food or bring your own. Take a stroll, play a game of corn hole (those guys crushed us), and sit on the hill as the sun goes down and the skyline lights up. Follow for weekly date night recommendations from your Philly matchmaker. #datenight #phillynights #matchmaker #phillydating

I’m truly so thankful to work with brilliant and inspiring men and women who are ready to share their lives with a partner. #matchmaking #coaching #loveconnections #philadelphia

A room full of daters arrived with closed-toe shoes and open hearts for our axe throwing mixer. Hosted by your local Philly matchmakers @dararaematchmaking and @michalmatches , guests arrived and enjoyed food and drinks in the lounge before we kicked things off with a fun activity to get everyone talking. Next, we headed to the axe throwing lanes where the fun continued. Many numbers were exchanged and we can’t wait to keep up with our guests. Thank you to all who joined! Be sure to follow to keep up with all things dating in Philadelphia. #philly #datingevent #matchmakers #kickaxephilly

My origin story! Fast forward to 2024 and I’m the proud owner of Dara Rae Matchmaking, offering coaching, private matchmaking, and dating events #mystory #matchmaker #philadelphia #76ers

Want to play matchmaker with us? Let’s create some love connections! 💕Our client is 35, built like a ballerina with the bluest eyes you’ll ever see, intelligent, ambitious, and has the most contagious laugh. She lives in Philly and is open to dating anywhere! She is a curious thinker with a fun personality to boot. #MatchmakerMagic #LoveInTheMaking #loveconnections

Grab your ticket for a dating event you won’t want to miss 🎯 #phillydating #phillyevents #axethrowing

1. Date Him Philly & Date Her Philly: I created two Facebook groups that have led to dozens of relationships and two engagements so far! Date Him Philly is a women’s facebook group with 20k members where women recommend great men for each other date. Date Her Philly is the men’s version where men set each other up with amazing women. These groups are free resources for Philly singles. 2. Date Them Philly singles events: For the last year, @michalmatches and I have collaborated to host large monthly singles events at stunning venues across the city. 3. Dara Rae Matchmaking: My private matchmaking and coaching service takes the stress out of dating for accomplished Philly singles by introducing them to relationship-seeking, compatible matches and supporting them every step of the way. Be sure to follow to keep up with all things dating In Philadelphia! #philadelphia #matchmaker #dating #singlesevents #privatematchmaking #phillydating

Check out that spin at the end! #speeddancing #speeddating #dancelesson #datingevent #singlesevents #matchmaking

Date Them Philly hosts the city’s only events where you bring a single friend, especially if you think someone should #DateThem. For our 1 year anniversary event, we are heading to the deck at Moshulu for the biggest singles event of the summer. To celebrate, we’re giving 10 lucky winners a free ticket to the event! TO ENTER: 1. Tag two amazing friends in the comments 2. Follow your Philly matchmakers @dararaematchmaking AND @michalmatches to keep up with our events See you there! #datethemphilly #singlesevent #philadelphiaevents #loveconnections

*Tag your favorite bald guy* After 9 years of marriage, I’ve learned that love transcends any superficial expectations. It’s about the laughter we share, quiet moments together, and going through life as a team…hat or no hat 😊 #baldandbeautiful #loveisbald #datebaldmen #couplegoals #datingadvice #dararaematchmaking

🌟 On my way to meet your match! 🌟 As a matchmaker, I’m dedicated to making meaningful connections and bringing love into people’s lives. I’m often asked how I meet potential matches for my clients. The answer? Everywhere and anywhere. Whether I’m connecting with new faces online or in person, my clients are always top of mind. I never assume the right match is already in my database. My clients receive personalized recruiting, a vital part of the matchmaking process that I’m most passionate about. In the past week alone, I’ve connected with single professionals at a social club event, a conference, through the large Facebook groups I’ve built, and even at a baby shower! Sometimes, it’s as simple as a friend texting me a number with a note that reads ‘you need to meet him!’—or right here on Instagram. But how I initially connect with someone isn’t what matters most. It’s the process that follows. Before introducing my clients to a potential match, they know I’ve met with that individual either in person or over video for a thorough interview to ensure compatibility. To see if you’re a match for one of my incredible clients, create a complimentary profile and apply using the link in my bio. #Matchmaker #Philadelphia #loveconnections

Quick trip to NYC this past week with @adamaslatei to celebrate the premiere of @pattistanger and @nickviall new show, Patti Stanger: The Matchmaker. When the Millionaire Matchmaker first aired in 2008, I remember thinking that was my dream job: helping others date successfully and find love. I never imagined it would become a reality! In 2018, when someone asked if I’d be interested in becoming a matchmaker, I immediately thought of Patti and said “yes!” Fast forward to 2024 and it’s an honor to know this icon who has helped thousands of daters. #matchmakerlife

A beautiful Philly love story! Thank you @jennleetv and @bevisionary_roe for including me in this FOX29 special on dating in Philadelphia ❤️ #DaraRaeMatchmaking #DateHimPhilly

Honored to have spent another year playing a part in beautiful love stories. Looking forward to 2024 as I enter my 6th year in the matchmaking and dating industry. Congratulations to Nicole and Fran (pictured here) on their engagement! #matchmaking #engagement #love

Happy Holidays! Love, The Rahills

My first time flying from Philly to Miami so of course I had to listen to this Will Smith song on the way down. And then who do I run into at a hotel the next day? @willsmith ! Is this how manifesting works? #artbasel #welcometomiami

Playing Cupid in the City of Angels #la #matchmaking

NYC this past week! Thank you @joeysasso for bringing amazing energy as host of our singles night at the theatre with @sexwork_sexplay. Matchmakers @maya.nyc1510 @karmen_paley @ricconomics expertly answered audience questions. On Wednesday night, @adamaslatei interviewed RHONY’s @erindanalichy @lichylaw who shared what makes their marriage work at our fireside chat with @parlor.social.club. What a gorgeous and inspiring couple! More to come in October ❤️

Date Him Philly hosted a daters mixer at @frankfordhall and guests wrote secret notes to give compliments, exchange numbers, and connect further. Thank you to everyone who came out! #datehimphilly #phillysingles #philadelphiaevents #frankfordhall

Amazing week in Vermont

Congratulations Al and Greg! Your life in the Vermont woods is truly magical!

First time at @usopen !

Frankford Hall Round 2! Kick off September at their iconic beer garden and meet Philly’s best singles. Hosted by yours truly and @michalmatches #phillyevents #datehimphilly #phillysingles

FLX for ALW! Last pic sums up the weekend. Love you Al and can’t wait for your wedding! @alw5116

Beautiful Saturday in the Hamptons at Jill Zarin’s annual luncheon in honor of the late Bobby Zarin ❤️ The people were wonderful and the swag bag was epic! #jillzarinluxluncheon

Last night, 140 Philly singles were excited to turn OFF their dating apps and connect face to face. Guests enjoyed @frankfordhall ’s iconic beer garden while they mingled and made new friends and romantic connections. The evening was hosted by my co-organizer extraordinaire, @michalmatches , the always wise @datingpractically , and yours truly repping @tawkify. Guests also struck their best pose in dating profile mini-shoots with the incredible @the_philly_dating_photographer. Thank you to all who came out to our third Date Him Phily event! Can’t wait for the next one! #phillysingles #matchmaking

Mornings with Nat Nat

Our second sold out Date Him Philly event! The single women of Date Him Philly brought the best single men they know to FringeArt’s beautiful beer garden. Thank you all for coming! We’re planning one more this summer 🙂 Thank you to my amazing cohost, super connector @michalmatches ! Picking the winner for the Tawkify raffle tonight! 🎉

Happy 8 years @jrahill86! Love you always

Had the best time last night at the very first Date Him Philly singles mixer! We asked single women to bring the best single guy they know...and the result? An evening of 50 amazing women and 50 amazing men making connections. We moved the event inside due to air quality concerns and filled the beautiful bar @FringeArts. A "little" wildfire can't stop us! Thank you @michalmatches for being an incredible collaborator and co-host. And thank you to everyone who came out! Event was sponsored by Tawkify and the winner of our raffles will be picked tonight! #iloveprizes #datehimphilly

Happy Mother’s Day to us! #tswift #yesitwasamazing

James surprised us with a puppy yesterday...introducing Ruby Rahill

Three moms trying to stay awake past 10 pm in the Lower East Side #workfam #LES

Greatest cohort to ever grace Willard Hall #schoolpsychologists

Night at the Penn Museum celebrating The Pomeroys!

Sophia & Jayne #belatedhalloween

First night out as parents of two

Welcome to the family Natalie Jade

Happy anniversary, James! There’s no one else I’d rather stay up late with eating Ben & Jerry’s. #6years #pregnantandeatingalltheicecream

See you never 2020 #happynewyear

Can’t wait for this event with the PSU alumni association! Tune in on January 6th to see if I can form coherent sentences for an entire hour

Portrait and sticker on my forearm brought to you by my 3 year old. #workingfromhome

What’s that? Did this review make me tear up? No, of course not. Don’t be ridiculous (Grabs Kleenex)

Ayla: Can we go in the ocean? Me: No, it’s too cold. Ayla: Someone should pee in it so it warms up. #whotaughtherthat?

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s perfect timing that I was very excited about. #throwbacksaturdaymorningwhileimlayinginbed

Mommy, Daddy, Ayla, and “Gato Elsa” #familyoffour

❤️

Proud of our flower girl. Congrats to my sister and new brother-in-law!

Ayla Ren at Cira Green #gobirds

Pro Tip: When it’s August and you’re the palest one in the group, post a B&W pic. In all seriousness though, I love these two. Thanks for a great weekend! #dc #bjtforever #shirlingtonscramble

8th crazy night #happychanukah #jamesisagoodsport

What a night!Congratulations Lindsey & Dan! Happy to share a wedding anniversary with an amazing couple! #perfectbride #perfectnight #cohortreunion #schoolpsychsunite

The top photo was taken the moment we found out I was pregnant with Ayla. The second photo was taken moments after the Eagles won the Super Bowl #lifehighlights #eagles #superbowlchamps

GO EAGLES! #ispymittens #superbowlchamps

Hannukah Gone Wild #soexcited #andshejustcanthideit

Date night in Conshohocken

Unplugging this week

Showering @amf5113 today! #mamahorton #ladiesofpulaski

Glad I met this lady at a lemonade stand 22 years ago #mamasdayout #flyeaglesfly

Happy 4th! #throwbacktuesday

Amazing weekend celebrating this gorgeous bride and her groom #thatdress #simonssaysido @simonssays88 @mommasimons

Mittens explores the great outdoors #thebackyard #citycat #concretejungle

Beautiful wedding for a beautiful couple! #allaboutherbenjamin

Photo credit: Guy in Mask #datenight #tokyo #tb

New scarf #highfashion